Get to the Point

I’m working on a new story that has a premise, some interesting characters, worthwhile dialogue, and a backbone of narration. But it doesn’t yet have a thrust, a downhill snowball’s propulsion of a good story. I’m keeping with it, but I’m beginning to wonder if it might come to the Amy Hempel method: write and write and write. And after editing, editing, editing, ending up with a short-short. Which wouldn't be such a bad thing.

Normally I don't mind not knowing where a story’s road will bend or fork. But this time, I can't be certain if these characters and I are on the right road. Maybe I’ll find out in Costa Rica, bumping along on one of their muddy, potholed, beautiful caminos.